Iron Mike still fighting his toughest opponent

Price worked with both Smith and Lennox Lewis in the build-up to his second bout with Thompson, but after flooring the American in the second round he was stopped in the fifth after failing to defend himself from a barrage from his 41-year-old opponent.

The split with Smith, reported in the Daily Mail, is said to have happened on good terms, with Price privately admitting that the move was the "toughest of his career".

Calzaghe, who trained son Joe throughout one of the longest reigns by a world champion in modern boxing, has reportedly expressed an interest in working with Price, as has renowned British trainer Jimmy Tibbs.

Adam Booth, who trained Price when he first turned professional and now trains David Haye, George Groves and Andy Lee, has also been linked with the heavyweight.